Methods and apparatus for reducing call drop rate

ABSTRACT

Methods and apparatus for reducing voice call drop rate are disclosed. Existing devices do not account for the added burden of background services on voice calls. Specifically, multi-RAB scenarios (e.g., a voice call and background services) can experience significant reduction in call quality. Accordingly, in one exemplary embodiment, background services that are not time-critical and/or application-critical can be suspended while a voice call is in progress. By suspending background traffic during a call, the device can avoid unnecessary multi-RAB voice call operation, which significantly improves overall network operation and user experience.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.13/629,431, filed Sep. 27, 2012, entitled “METHODS AND APPARATUS FORREDUCING CALL DROP RATE”, which claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Applicant Ser. No. 61/612,121 filed Mar. 16, 2012 entitled“METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR REDUCING CALL DROP RATE”, all of which areherein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of wirelesscommunication. More particularly, in one exemplary embodiment, methodsand apparatus for reducing voice call drop rate are presented.

Cellular devices have expanded in complexity and utility over time;existing so-called “smartphones” can make phone calls, perform datatransactions, record and playback multimedia, and perform a wide varietyof other tasks. Many smartphones (such as the exemplary iPhone™manufactured by the Assignee hereof) have access to thousands ofdifferent applications which can be downloaded by the user topersonalize the smartphone capabilities and functionality.

Many software applications utilize so-called “background services”.Background services are software processes which are not under thedirect control of an interactive user, but which instead manage ongoingtasks such as: responding to requests, fetching data, synchronizingdata, managing hardware components, managing software processes, etc.Common examples of background services include without limitation: pushservices (i.e., the network “pushes” data to the device, or vice versa),pull services (i.e., the device “pulls” data from the network), locationbased services, mail exchange services, cloud synchronization services(i.e., the device synchronizes data to a network “cloud” of servers),etc.

Generally, users are not aware of background services; backgroundservices provide a seamless and enhanced user experience by offloadingthe minutiae of device management from the user.

However, background services can trigger periodic data activity on thephone (unbeknownst to the user). If the user is engaged in a voice callwhen a background service initiates a data transaction, then the devicemust change to a Multi-Radio Access Bearer (multi-RAB) operation.

As a brief aside, calls (such as for example voice-only calls) aretypically circuit-switched (CS) services whereas data services arepacket-switched (PS) services. Multi-RAB operation is required tosupport multiple simultaneous connections (such as a CS connection and aPS connection).

Unfortunately, empirical and anecdotal evidence suggests that multi-RABoperation is not as robust as normal operation; thus, changing fromnormal operation to multi-RAB operation during a call can increase therisk of dropping the ongoing call.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides, inter alia, apparatus and methods forincreasing mobile device performance, including e.g., reducing voicecall drop rate in a mobile device.

A method for increasing call performance of a wireless device configuredto support one or more circuit-switched radio access bearers (CS RABs)and packet-switched radio access bearers (PS RABs) is disclosed. In oneembodiment, the method includes: running one or more backgroundpacket-switched (PS) applications, at least one of the one or morebackground PS applications in communication with a network via a PS RABassociated therewith; responsive to a circuit-switched (CS) sessionbeing initiated, suspending the at least one of the one or morebackground PS applications; and responsive to the circuit-switchedsession terminating, resuming the one or more background PSapplications.

In one such variant, the CS session includes a voice call, and the oneor more background PS applications include a non-voice data service.

In another variant, suspending the one or more background PSapplications prevents a multi-RAB session.

In a third variant, the CS session is initiated by a user initiatedvoice call.

In a fourth variant, the one or more background PS applications aretime-insensitive non-critical services.

In a fifth variant, the method further includes estimating a performanceloss the one or more background PS applications will cause if notsuspended.

In a sixth variant, the method further includes estimating a likelihoodof dropping the CS session if the one or more background PS applicationsremain active.

In a seventh variant, resuming the one or more background PSapplications includes initializing the one or more background PSapplications.

In an eighth variant, the method includes notifying the network of thesuspension of the one or more background PS applications.

An apparatus configured to prevent multiple radio access bearer(multi-RAB) calls is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatusincludes: a modem; a processor; and a non-transitory computer readableapparatus having a storage medium with at least one computer programstored thereon, the at least one computer program configured to, whenexecuted on the processor, cause the processor to: transact data via oneor more non-voice related background processes; responsive to acircuit-switched call, determine the likelihood of circuit-switched callfailure if the one or more non-voice related background processes arenot terminated; and when the determined likelihood exceeds an acceptablethreshold, temporarily suspend the one or more non-voice relatedbackground processes.

In one variant, the determined likelihood is based at least in part onthe difference in bit rate between a circuit-switched radio accessbearer (CS RAB) and a multi-RAB.

In another variant, the one or more non-voice related backgroundprocesses includes a mail exchange service configured to electronic mailmessages.

In a third variant, the one or more non-voice related backgroundprocesses includes a cloud-based storage service configured to storeuser data in a remote network entity.

In a fourth variant, the one or more non-voice related backgroundprocesses includes a push notification service configured to provideuser alerts.

In a fifth variant, the suspension of one or more non-voice relatedbackground processes are based at least in part on user selection.

A wireless device is disclosed. In one embodiment, the wireless deviceincludes: a wireless interface configured to communicate with a wirelessnetwork; logic configured to detect a user-initiated circuit-switched onthe wireless interface; and logic configured to postpone anon-user-initiated service during the circuit switched session.

A method for postponing message delivery is disclosed. In oneembodiment, the method includes: receiving a message at a base stationassociated with a mobile device, the message causing the base station tohalt background services during a voice call session of the mobiledevice; and when a push message for a background service for the mobiledevice is received during the voice call session of the mobile device,postponing delivery of the push message.

A wireless network apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, thewireless network apparatus includes: a wireless interface, the wirelessinterface configured to communicate with a plurality of wirelessdevices; a processor; and a computer readable apparatus having a storagemedium with at least one computer program stored thereon, the at leastone computer program configured to, when executed on the processor,cause the processor to: limit bandwidth available for packet-switchedbackground services transmitted to a wireless device when the wirelessdevice has an active circuit-switched session.

In one variant, the packet-switched background services cause thewireless device to switch to multi-RAB (Radio Access Bearer) operation.

A wireless network apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, thewireless network apparatus includes: a wireless interface, the wirelessinterface configured to communicate with a plurality of wirelessdevices; logic configured to enable message delivery for one or morenon-user-initiated services; and logic configured to disable messagedelivery for the one or more non-user-initiated services while auser-initiated service is active.

A method for increasing call performance of wireless devices isdisclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes: determining whether acall is in progress on the wireless device; and if a call is determinedto be in progress, suspending a background service running on thewireless device during the call. In one implementation, the backgroundservice is a non-voice use of a network.

An apparatus adapted to reduce a call drop rate is disclosed. In oneembodiment, the apparatus includes: a modem; a processor; and anon-transitory computer readable apparatus having a storage medium withat least one computer program stored thereon. In one variant, the atleast one computer program is configured to, when executed on theprocessor determine whether a call is in progress on the wireless deviceusing the modem, and if a call is determined on the wireless deviceduring the call.

A system to reduce a call drop rate is disclosed.

A computer readable apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, theapparatus includes at least one computer program stored on a medium, theat least one program configured to, when executed, reduce a call droprate.

A method of making an uninterrupted call is disclosed. In oneembodiment, the method includes transferring data using a non-voicerelated background process on a mobile device; initiating a voice callon the same mobile device, and when the call has been initiated (orinitiation of the call has been detected), at least temporarilysuspending the background process (e.g., until the voice call iscompleted).

Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will immediatelybe recognized by persons of ordinary skill in the art with reference tothe attached drawings and detailed description of exemplary embodimentsas given below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a graphical representation of one exemplary cellular network.

FIG. 2 is a logical flow diagram representing a generalized method forreducing voice call drop rate in a mobile device.

FIG. 3 is a logical flow diagram representing one exemplaryimplementation of the method for reducing voice call drop rate in amobile device of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a graphical representation of one exemplary embodiment of aclient device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Overview

Reference is now made to the drawings, wherein like numerals refer tolike parts throughout.

As noted above, smartphones utilize multiple background services (e.g.,push services, pull services, location based services, Mail Exchange,and cloud services) to improve overall user experience.

However, existing smartphone devices do not account for the added burdenof background services on ongoing tasks e.g., ongoing voice calls. Sincebackground services can substantially increase the risk of dropped callsby creating a multi-RAB scenario, various embodiments are directed tosuspending background processes during a voice call. Specifically, inone such embodiment, improved methods and apparatus for reducing calldrop rate are disclosed. Background services that are not time-criticaland/or application-critical can be suspended while a voice call is inprogress. By suspending background traffic during a call, the device canavoid unnecessary multi-RAB voice call operation, which significantlyimproves overall network operation and user experience.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Exemplary embodiments are now described in detail. While theseembodiments are primarily discussed in the context of cellular networksincluding without limitation, third generation (3G) wideband codedivision multiple access (WCDMA) and Universal Mobile TelecommunicationsSystems (UMTS) cellular networks, it will be recognized by those ofordinary skill that the present disclosure is not so limited. In fact,the various principles described herein are useful in and readilyadapted to other cellular technologies including for example:

Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), General Radio PacketService (GPRS), Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), Long TermEvolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), Interim Standard 95 (IS-95),Interim Standard 2000 (IS-2000, also referred to as CDMA-2000), CDMA1XEV-DO, Time Division Single Carrier CDMA (TD-SCDMA), Time Division LTE(TD LTE), etc.

Moreover the principles detailed herein are not limited to cellulartechnologies (e.g., a “call” as described herein may be broadlyinterpreted to relate to any activity or process which has a possibilityof being dropped or failing based on background activity). Hence, itwill be recognized by artisans of ordinary skill given this disclosurethat the present disclosure may be applicable to multiple areas ofwireless technologies including for example, Wireless Local AreaNetworks (WLAN), Personal Area Networks (PAN), Metropolitan AreaNetworks (MAN). Common commercial examples of the foregoing include,without limitation, Wi-Fi®, WiMAX™, Bluetooth®, etc.

Cellular Networks

In the following discussion, an exemplary cellular radio system isdescribed that includes a network of radio cells each served by atransmitting station, known as a cell site or base station (BS). Theradio network provides wireless communications service for a pluralityof mobile station (MS) devices. The network of BSs working incollaboration allows for wireless service which is greater than theradio coverage provided by a single serving BS. The individual BSs areconnected to a Core Network, which includes additional controllers forresource management and is in some cases capable of accessing othernetwork systems (such as the Internet, other cellular networks, etc.).

FIG. 1 illustrates one exemplary cellular network 100, with clientdevices 102, operating within the coverage of the Radio Access Network(RAN) provided by a number of base stations (BSs) 104. The Radio AccessNetwork (RAN) is the collective body of base stations and associatednetwork entities that are controlled by a Mobile Network Operator (MNO).The user interfaces to the RAN via the client devices, which in manytypical usage cases is a cellular phone or smartphone. However, as usedherein, the terms “mobile station”, “mobile device”, “client device”,“user equipment”, and “user device” may include, but are not limited to,cellular telephones, smartphones (such as for example the iPhone™manufactured by the Assignee hereof), personal computers (PCs) andminicomputers, whether desktop, laptop, or otherwise, as well as mobiledevices such as handheld computers, PDAs, personal media devices (PMDs),tablet computers (such as for example the iPad™ device manufactured bythe Assignee hereof), or any combinations of the foregoing.

As shown in FIG. 1, the RAN is coupled to the Core Network 106 of theMNO e.g., via broadband access. The Core Network provides both routingand service capabilities. For example, a first client device 102connected to a first base station 104 can communicate with a secondclient device connected to a second base station, via routing throughthe Core Network 106. Similarly, a client device can access other typesof services e.g., the Internet, via the Core Network 106. The CoreNetwork 106 performs a wide variety of functions, including withoutlimitation, authentication of client devices, authorization of clientdevices for various services, billing client devices for provisionedservices, call routing, etc.

Within the context of Universal Mobile Telecommunications Systems (UMTS)cellular networks, a logical connection for exchanging control and userdata between the user equipment (UE) and the RAN is referred to as aradio access bearer (RAB). UMTS supports circuit-switched (CS) RAB,packet-switched (PS) RAB, and multi-RAB (which is one or more RAB).

A CS RAB reserves a dedicated communications channel for datacommunications. The channel remains connected for the duration of thecommunication session (even if no data is being transacted). Furthermorethe CS RAB data is sequentially sent. In contrast, a PS RAB divides thedata to be transmitted into packets that are transmitted through thenetwork independently. Each individual packet may be sent multipletimes, in out-of-sequence transmissions, etc. PS RABs can be throttledto carry more or less data based on existing conditions (e.g., amount oftraffic, amount of capacity, etc.).

Artisans of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that voice callscan be highly compressed; however the compressed data must be deliveredregularly. If voice call data is interrupted, the call will “break-up”,and/or exhibit noticeable artifacts. Voice quality degradation is easilynoticed, thus CS RABs are used to provide a dedicated channel for voicetraffic to ensure on-time delivery of voice packets, and thus maximizevoice call quality. In contrast, data services, including backgroundservices, can be implemented within a PS RAB. The PS RABs can vary theamount of bandwidth according to the amount of data traffic. Thus, PSRABs are ideal for bursty traffic (e.g., where the amount of datasignificantly varies), and/or infrequent traffic (e.g., where the datais unpredictably sent). Since background services are not directlyobserved by the human user, background services can be handled entirelyin PS RAB.

Cellular networks offer different methods for users and applications tonegotiate bearer characteristics for carrying information to improvequality of service (QoS). For example, WCDMA offers four (4) differenttraffic classes to group different applications and services:conversational, streaming, interactive, and background. The differentclasses relate to how delay sensitive particular traffic is. Certainservices can be given priority (e.g. conversation and streaming classesto transmit voice communications and streaming multimedia respectively),whereas lower priority can be delayed using packet scheduling andtransmitted as non-real-time packet data e.g. interactive and backgroundclasses to transmit web browsing and email downloads respectively.

UMTS networks additionally support a multi-RAB operation. Multi-RABoperation is used to support multiple RABs. For example, where a userhas a voice call and data transaction occurring simultaneously, amulti-RAB call can handle the voice and data with a CS RAB and a PS RAB.Still other embodiments may support any number or combination of CS RABor PS RAB (e.g., in some multi-RAB transactions, the device maintainsmultiple PS RAB, etc.). Unfortunately, it has been observed thatmulti-RAB operation significantly decreases connection robustness.

Multi-RAB connections that support a voice call (CS RAB) with data (PSRAB) are more likely to experience decreased performance, and in somecases, call failure. Cellular networks implement a wide variety ofdifferent codecs to encode the voice data. For example, UMTS employs theAdaptive Multi-Rate (AMR) technique. AMR is a speech codec thatintegrates eight different source rates (e.g., 12.2 kbps, 10.2 kbps,7.95 kbps, 7.40 kbps, 6.70 kbps, 5.90 kbps, 5.15 kbps, and 4.75 kbps).The different bit rates are controlled by the network based on bandwidthavailability and can be changed every 20 ms. A voice call CS RAB isperformed with a 5.90 kbps AMR codec; however, a multi-RAB voice callmust use a 12.2 kbps AMR codec. The power requirement (RF signalstrength received from the base station) for the 12.2 kbps AMR codec ismuch higher than the 5.90 kbps; the higher power requirement is inaddition to the power requirements for the data transmission.

Thus, a multi-RAB call requires significantly more received RF signalstrength than a voice-only call, in addition to more complex signaling(e.g., to maintain both the CS RAB and the PS RAB). This addedcomplexity is much more easily interrupted, thus multi-RAB calls aremuch less robust than a voice-only call.

Mobile Environment

As a brief aside, smartphones offer more advanced computing power thanother mobile devices. Typical smartphones are equipped with variousmultimedia components (e.g., cameras, displays, speakers, andmicrophones), global positioning system (GPS), and sophisticatedprocessors that can run a multitude of software applications. Thesmartphone operating system (OS) maintains a number of backgroundservices to further improve user experience by e.g., pre-fetching data,periodically storing data, memory management, network updates, andswitching between applications.

Common examples of background services include, but are not limited to:(i) push services that can connect the mobile device to a push serverand receive notifications allowing the phone to constantly receiveupdates from different applications on the mobile device; (ii) pullservices that can connect to a server and request updates from differentapplications on the mobile device; (iii) location based services thatcan update an application with a user's location e.g. for drivingdirections applications; (iv) mail exchange services, to alert the userof an incoming email message; and (v) cloud services (such as forexample iCloud™), for storing a user's documents and media, etc.

Background services may update at regular intervals (periodic),sporadically, or on an event-triggered basis. For example, a mailapplication may check for new emails every half an hour, whereas asocial networking application that uses push notifications may send anotification only when there has been an update. Some services, e.g.push services, may require sending “keep alive” messages to the serverat regular intervals to keep the connection active.

Methods

Based on the foregoing, it is desirable to attempt to avoid multi-RABoperation during an ongoing voice call, if at all possible. Accordingly,in one exemplary embodiment, a cellular device will disable or suspendbackground data services during a voice call, so as to avoid droppingthe call or otherwise degrading its quality.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a logical flow diagram of one embodiment of ageneralized method for reducing voice call drop rate is illustrated.While the following method is described in view of a CS RABtransitioning to a multi-RAB, it is appreciated that the principlesdescribed herein are useful in, inter alia, any application whichundergoes a state change (such as a change in codec, algorithm, etc.)when transitioning radio access bearer operation (RAB). This may includePS RAB to multi-PS RAB transitions, CS RAB to multi-CS RAB transitions,CS RAB to multi-RAB, and PS RAB to multi-RAB, multi-RAB to CS RAB,multi-RAB to PS RAB, etc.

At step 202 of the method 200, the mobile device initiates or receives acircuit-switched call. In one exemplary embodiment, the call is a voicecall. Other examples of circuit-switched calls include, withoutlimitation, various streaming multimedia transactions, etc. In onecommon variant, the circuit-switched call is a so-called “mobileoriginated” voice call (i.e., the mobile device initiates the voicecall). In other variants, the voice call is a so-called “mobileterminated” voice call (i.e., the mobile device receives the voicecall).

The circuit-switched call is further associated with a first multimediacodec. For example, AMR codecs include eight different source rates(e.g., 12.2 kbps, 10.2 kbps, 7.95 kbps, 7.40 kbps, 6.70 kbps, 5.90 kbps,5.15 kbps, and 4.75 kbps). In one exemplary embodiment, thecircuit-switched call includes a CS RAB voice call operating with a 5.90kbps Adaptive Multi-Rate (AMR) codec. Codecs span a wide range ofcapabilities and functionality, the foregoing being merely illustrativeof a much broader spectrum.

For the duration of the circuit-switched call, the method 200 suspendsbackground services (step 204). In one implementation of the inventivemethod, all services except an ongoing circuit-switched voice call aresuspended. By suspending background services, the mobile device will nottransition to a multi-RAB call unintentionally. In otherimplementations, only background services are suspended. In these cases,background services will not change the RAB, however the user may stillelect to perform a function (such as surfing the Internet, etc.) thatforces the device to change to multi-RAB operation.

In other embodiments, the mobile device only suspends a subset ofservices that are time-insensitive and/or non-critical. For example,within WCDMA networks, background services are time insensitive andwould be suspended. In other networks, similar classifications can beused to prevent initiation of unintentional, non-critical, and/or timeinsensitive services during voice call activity. In some variants, theuser may have configurable selection so as to further fine tune deviceoperation, in view of user tastes (e.g., a user may disable alloperation other than e.g., push notifications, etc.).

In still other embodiments, the mobile device may further indicate tothe network that it is unreachable for unwanted services. For example,the mobile device may refuse to send “keep alive” signals for pushnotification operation; the push server will disable push notificationsfor devices which have not recently successfully provided “keep alive”signaling. Alternatively, the mobile device may explicitly message thebase station, and the base station may responsively halt any backgroundservices, limit the bandwidth available for background services, etc.

In one embodiment, background services can be suspended using a toggleswitch. The suspension can also be based on e.g., user input, userdefined settings, and/or programmed settings. For example, the user mayhave a physical toggle switch that can be toggled to enable or disablebackground services during voice call operation. Alternately, avirtualized toggle switch may be provided via e.g., a touch screeninterface, etc.

In still other embodiments, background services can be enabled ordisabled via an internal software condition. For example, a softwareBoolean variable (e.g., TRUE, FALSE) can be used to enable or disablebackground services during voice calls. Similarly, softwareimplementations may be based on e.g., a rules engine or an optimizationscheme. In one such example, multiple conditions are considered whendisabling or enabling background services, such as: performance loss,likelihood of failure, etc. For example, since multi-RAB induced callloss is due largely to insufficient received signal strength, inscenarios where the mobile device has strong signal reception, thedevice can retain background processes (the enhanced performance is notnecessary). Similarly, the device may not suspend background processesif a more efficient, and robust codec is used. Still other variants arereadily recognized by artisans in the related arts, given the contentsof the present disclosure.

At step 206 of the method 200, the device performs the voice call.

Once the call has concluded, the device resumes background services thatwere suspended (step 208). In some embodiments, the background servicesrequire re-initialization (e.g., sending keep alive messages for pushnotifications or restarting sessions with network services that timedout due to the suspension). In some cases, the background services maybe simply resumed.

Base Station Assisted Operation

In one embodiment, a base station is utilized to reduce the rate andlikelihood of dropped calls. In an example embodiment, the wirelessdevice is connected to the base station and the base station. Thewireless device may initiate a CS session and/or a PS session. In anexample embodiment, the base station is aware of the sessions conductedby the wireless device.

In a further embodiment, the base station may halt or limit bandwidth toPS sessions during the course of a CS session on a wireless device. PSsessions can be halted and/or delayed or enabled to continue via aninternal software condition. For example, a software Boolean variable(e.g., TRUE, FALSE) can be used to halt/delay or enable services duringCS sessions. Similarly, software implementations may be based on e.g., arules engine or an optimization scheme. In one such example, multipleconditions are considered when halting/delaying or enabling PS sessions,such as: performance loss, likelihood of failure, an instruction by thewireless device, an estimate of connection strength (e.g. receivedsignal strength of the wireless device), the type of PS session that isactive and whether that type of session is time sensitive or critical,the type of CS session that is active, etc. For example, since multi-RABinduced call loss is due largely to insufficient received signalstrength, in scenarios where the mobile device has strong signalreception, the base station can retain PS sessions (the enhancedperformance is not necessary). Similarly, the base station may notsuspend PS sessions if a more efficient, and robust codec is used. Stillother variants are readily recognized by artisans in the related arts,given the contents of the present disclosure.

In other embodiments, the base station may decline to transmit data ordelay the transmission of data from a PS session to a wireless devicewhile a CS session is in progress.

Once a CS session has concluded, the base station may resumetransmitting data from halted PS sessions to the mobile device, transmitdata that was delayed due to the CS session, and/or reinitialize PSsessions.

Example Operation

Referring now to FIG. 3, one exemplary implementation of the generalizedmethod 300 for reducing call drop rate is shown. In this example, themobile device is a WCDMA-compliant smartphone. Voice calls are madeusing a circuit-switched radio access bearer (CS RAB) while backgroundapplications use packet-switched radio access bearer (PS RAB) tocommunicate over the network. The smartphone runs a number of backgroundapplications including an email application that automatically fetchesnew email messages every half an hour, a social networking applicationthat uses push notifications to send updates to the phone, a cloudservice to store data like pictures and music. Each background serviceautomatically (without the user's knowledge) sends and/or retrieves datafrom the network.

Under prior art methods, these background services would run regardlessof the state of the smartphone; i.e., whether or not a call was inprogress. This would, by random chance, occasionally result in multi-RABcalls, which are more vulnerable to failure and/or voice qualitydegradation. However, according to one exemplary embodiment, thebackground services are suspended when a voice call is in progress. Bysuspending background services, the mobile device eliminates any chanceoccurrences of multi-RAB calls, thereby increasing overall voice callquality.

At step 302 of the method 300 the smartphone places or receives a voicecall. The voice call includes a circuit-switched radio access bearer (CSRAB) for transacting voice data.

Responsively, at step 304 of the method 300, the smartphone suspends itsbackground services. Background services that are classified within thebackground traffic class are halted, suspended, etc.

For example, the mobile phone may stop sending “keep alive” signals to apush server for a social networking application. This may end theconnection with the push server.

In another example, the mobile device may delay fetching mail requests.This would mean that the smartphone during a phone call will notautomatically check for new email, or automatically download emailduring the voice call.

In still another example, the mobile device suspends synchronizing tocloud services to backup new data from the smartphone to the cloud, orsynchronizing new data in the cloud onto the smartphone. In moreaggressive implementations, active data sessions can be delayed orsuspended to further reduce the risk of multi-RAB calls.

Still other embodiments may prevent unintentional multi-RAB operation,but still allow intentional multi-RAB operation. For example,communications within the conversational class, streaming class, andinteractive class, are not delayed or suspended and may continueoperating normally. Accordingly, a user may still, for instance, look upa map on the phone while having a conversation, but the device would notautomatically check a user's email. In one such variant, a user isallowed to expressly choose to use a service (and operate multi-RAB).For example, a user may expressly check their email inbox and download anew message during a phone call. In this variant, a user would have toexpressly choose to access the service and go multi-RAB and without sochoosing the phone would delay the service, for example checking email.In a further embodiment, each potential service to use the network isdetermined individually whether it is critical or not. If critical thenit is not suspended or delayed, if not then it is suspended or delayed.

At step 306, the device executes the voice call.

Once the voice call ends, the smartphone resumes background services.

Apparatus

Referring now to FIG. 4, one exemplary client device 400 adapted toreduce the voice call drop rate is illustrated. As used herein, the term“client device” includes, but is not limited to cellular telephones,smartphones (such as for example an iPhone™), wireless-enabled tabletdevices (such as for example an iPad™), or any combinations of theforegoing. While one specific device configuration and layout is shownand discussed herein, it is recognized that many other configurationsmay be readily implemented by one of ordinary skill given the presentdisclosure, the apparatus 400 of FIG. 4 being merely illustrative of thebroader principles described herein.

The apparatus 400 of FIG. 4 includes a modem 402, a baseband processor404, an applications processor 406 and a computer readable memorysubsystem 408.

The baseband processing subsystem 404 includes one or more of centralprocessing units (CPU) or digital processors, such as a microprocessor,digital signal processor, field-programmable gate array, RISC core, orplurality of processing components mounted on one or more substrates.The baseband processing subsystem is coupled to computer readable memory408, which may include for example SRAM, FLASH, SDRAM, and/or HDD (HardDisk Drive) components. As used herein, the term “memory” includes anytype of integrated circuit or other storage device adapted for storingdigital data including, without limitation, ROM, PROM, EEPROM, DRAM,SDRAM, DDR/2 SDRAM, EDO/FPMS, RLDRAM, SRAM, “flash” memory (e.g.,NAND/NOR), and PSRAM.

The baseband processing subsystem 404 is adapted to receive one or moredata streams from the modem 402. In an example embodiment the modem 402is a WCDMA modem. Alternate embodiments may have multiple modems andbaseband processing systems corresponding to each modem. In fact, thevarious embodiments are useful in and readily adapted to any multi-modecombination of one or more of the following: General Radio PacketService (GPRS), Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), Long TermEvolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), Interim Standard 95 (IS-95),Interim Standard 2000 (IS-2000, also referred to as CDMA-2000), CDMA1XEV-DO, Time Division Single Carrier CDMA (TD-SCDMA), Time Division LTE(TD LTE), etc.

The application processing subsystem 406 includes one or more of centralprocessing units (CPU) or digital processors, such as a microprocessor,digital signal processor, field-programmable gate array, RISC core, orplurality of processing components mounted on one or more substrates.The application processing subsystem is coupled to computer readablememory 408.

The application processing subsystem 406 is adapted to control overalloperation of the device including, for example: multimedia processing,operating system controls, program management, baseband processorconfiguration and control, etc.

In one exemplary embodiment of the device, the memory subsystemadditionally includes instructions which when executed by theapplication processor, determines whether a call is in progress,suspends background services if a call is in progress, determining whenthe call is complete, and resuming suspended background services whenthe call is complete. Other logical functions (such as e.g., determiningthe traffic classification of certain services) are also performed bylogic within the memory subsystem 408 in the exemplary embodiment.

Myriad other schemes for client-based (and/or network-based)capabilities management for reducing voice call drop rate will berecognized by those of ordinary skill given the present disclosure.

It will be recognized that while certain embodiments are described interms of a specific sequence of steps of a method, these descriptionsare only illustrative of the broader methods of the present disclosure,and may be modified as required by the particular application. Certainsteps may be rendered unnecessary or optional under certaincircumstances. Additionally, certain steps or functionality may be addedto the disclosed embodiments, or the order of performance of two or moresteps permuted. All such variations are considered to be encompassedwithin the principles disclosed and claimed herein.

While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointedout novel features as applied to various embodiments, it will beunderstood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in theform and details of the device or process illustrated may be made bythose skilled in the art without departing from the disclosedprinciples. The foregoing description is of the best mode presentlycontemplated. This description is in no way meant to be limiting, butrather should be taken as illustrative of the general principles. Thescope of the present disclosure should be determined with reference tothe claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method to improve connection performance of awireless device configured to support one or more circuit-switched radioaccess bearers (CS RABs) and one or more packet-switched radio accessbearers (PS RABs), the method comprising the wireless device:communicating data between the wireless device and a wireless networkvia one or more background PS processes using at least one PS RAB of theone or more PS RABs; responsive to initiation of a CS connection thatuses at least one CS RAB, determine a likelihood that the CS connectionwill fail when the one or more background PS processes operateconcurrently with the CS connection; and when the determined likelihoodexceeds a failure threshold, suspend at least one of the one or morebackground processes.
 2. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein thedetermined likelihood is based at least in part on a difference betweena first bit rate of the at least one CS RAB and a second bit rate of acombination of the at least one CS RAB and the at least one PS RAB. 3.The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the one or more background PSprocesses include a mail exchange service configured to communicateelectronic mail messages.
 4. The method as recited in claim 1, whereinthe one or more background PS processes include a cloud-based storageservice configured to store user data at a remote network entity.
 5. Themethod as recited in claim 1, where the one or more background PSprocesses include a push notification service configured to provide useralerts.
 6. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein suspension of theat least one of the one or more background PS processes is based on auser selection.
 7. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprisingthe wireless device: responsive to termination of the CS connection,resuming any suspended background PS processes.
 8. The method as recitedin claim 1, wherein initiation of the CS connection comprises initiationof a voice connection by a user of the wireless device.
 9. The method asrecited in claim 1, wherein the at least one of the one or morebackground PS processes are time-insensitive non-critical services. 10.The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising the wirelessdevice: providing a notification to the wireless network when suspendingthe at least one of the one or more background PS processes.
 11. Anapparatus configured to improve connection performance of a wirelessdevice configured to support communication with a wireless networkthrough multiple radio access bearers (RABs), the apparatus comprising:a modem; a processor; and a non-transitory computer-readable storagemedium having at least one computer program stored thereon, the at leastone computer program configured to, when executed on the processor,cause the apparatus to: communicate data with the wireless network via apacket-switched (PS) connection; responsive to initiation of acircuit-switched (CS) connection with the wireless network, determine alikelihood that the CS connection will fail when operating concurrentlywith the PS connection; and when the determined likelihood exceeds afailure threshold, suspend at least one process using the PS connection.12. The apparatus as recited in claim 11, wherein the PS connection usesone or more PS radio access bearers (RABs), and the CS connection usesone or more CS RABs.
 13. The apparatus as recited in claim 11, whereinthe PS connection communicates data for one or more background PSprocesses.
 14. The apparatus as recited in claim 11, wherein the atleast one computer program is configured to, when executed on theprocessor, further cause the apparatus to: resume the at least oneprocess suspended previously upon termination of the CS connection. 15.The apparatus as recited in claim 11, wherein the at least one computerprogram is configured to, when executed on the processor, further causethe apparatus to: obtain a user input that provides an indicationwhether to enable or disable the at least one process using the PSconnection during the CS connection.
 16. The apparatus as recited inclaim 15, wherein the user input indicates a user preference for aspecific application on the wireless device.
 17. The apparatus asrecited in claim 11, wherein the at least one process suspendedcomprises a background process classified within a background trafficquality of service (QoS) class.
 18. The apparatus as recited in claim11, wherein the at least one computer program is configured to, whenexecuted on the processor, further cause the apparatus to: maintain oneor more processes using the PS connection, wherein the one or moreprocesses are classified within a conversational, streaming, orinteractive traffic quality of service (QoS) class.
 19. The apparatus asrecited in claim 11, wherein the at least one computer program isconfigured to, when executed on the processor, further cause theapparatus to: provide a notification to the wireless network whensuspending any processes of the PS connection.
 20. A method to improveconnection performance of a wireless device configured to communicatewith a wireless network using multiple radio access bearers (RABs), themethod comprising the wireless device: communicating data via one ormore packet-switched (PS) RABs with the wireless network; detecting auser-initiated process to establish a circuit-switched (CS) connectionusing one or more CS RABs; and inhibiting concurrent operation of atleast some of the one or more PS RABs and the one or more CS RABs bysuspending any non-critical background processes using the PS RABs untildetecting termination of the CS connection.